Cayuga County’s state legislators discuss New York’s statue of limitations for sex offenses

State legislators representing parts of Cayuga County — Sens. John DeFrancisco, Pam Helming and James Seward Assemblymen Gary Finch and Robert Oaks — may be asked to vote next year on proposed legislation surrounding sex abuse.

Finch and Oaks said they both voted in favor of the Child Victims Act in June, a measure that would extend the statute of limitations for bringing many types of sex abuse charges. It was the first time the act had passed in the Assembly since 2008.

"We know that victims repress unspeakably painful memories, and we know that it can be incredibly difficult for victims to challenge powerful figures in their community," Finch said. "Stepping forward can take time … and I think it’s important to pass legislation that reflects these unfortunate realities and treats victims with compassion and understanding."